Overview & Reviews

The Escape Hybrid was not only the first mainstream hybrid SUV to be produced but also the first to come from a domestic automaker. Visually identical to its non-hybrid counterpart, the Escape Hybrid offered acceleration approaching that of the V6 model but with the fuel economy of the four-cylinder Escape.

There were two generations of the Ford Escape Hybrid, with the latter benefitting from a more modern design, easier-to-use controls and the ability to operate its air-conditioner whether the gas engine was running or not, unlike earlier versions. When the Escape was completely redesigned for 2013, a hybrid was not included in the lineup. Those looking for a used compact crossover with a small fuel appetite, however, would be well served by the Ford Escape Hybrid.

Most Recent Ford Escape Hybrid
The second-generation Escape Hybrid was produced from 2008 through 2012. The body adopted Ford's newer styling themes seen in the Edge and Expedition, while the cabin was updated and featured more ergonomic and attractive controls.

Ford's optional Sync voice-controlled interface debuted for 2009, along with standard stability control and a slightly larger (2.5 liter versus 2.3) gasoline engine that boosted combined output to 177 horsepower (up from 155 hp). For 2010 Ford introduced an automated parallel-parking system. That year also saw a new electric compressor for the air-conditioning that allowed A/C use at any time. Previously, the A/C would annoyingly shut off whenever the Escape's gas engine was off (such as when the SUV was stopped at a light or moving at low speeds on just electric power.)

The powertrain consisted of a four-cylinder gasoline engine, a pair of electric motors and an electronically controlled continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Under full acceleration, both power sources work together and make the Escape Hybrid quicker than the regular four-cylinder Escape. But under lighter load conditions, such as during stop-and-go traffic, the Escape Hybrid switched between the two, oftentimes running purely on battery power alone.

Fuel efficiency is impressive for a hybrid SUV of this time period, as a front-wheel-drive Escape Hybrid typically delivers close to 30 mpg in real-world driving. All-wheel-drive models were also offered.

There were two trim levels for the Escape Hybrid: base and Limited. The base version came with 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, a power driver seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, the Sync system, stability control, antilock brakes, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. Upgrading to the Limited added a sunroof, rear parking assist, leather upholstery and heated front seats and mirrors. A touchscreen navigation system was optional and came with a premium audio system. The Limited could also be equipped with an automatic parallel-parking system.

The main difference between driving an Escape Hybrid and driving a regular Escape comes down to handling. The Hybrid feels top-heavy around turns due to its extra 300 pounds of curb weight. And like the gasoline-only Escape (and most other compact crossovers, for that matter), this hybrid ute is geared more toward providing sure-footed foul-weather driving than it is to tackling seriously rugged terrain.

Past Ford Escape Hybrid Models
The first-generation Ford Escape Hybrid debuted for 2005 and ran through 2007. The regular Escape dawned four years earlier. The original powertrain featured a 2.3-liter gasoline engine that, together with its electric motor, produced a total of 155 hp.

Although this original iteration is similar in terms of size and driving dynamics to the generation that followed, it had a substandard interior filled with cheap, hard plastic surfaces and outdated controls. Additionally, the Premium package's navigation system was rather primitive and should be avoided. Apart from the availability of a moonroof for 2006, the next couple of years saw no changes.

User Reviews:

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  excellent - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By bowlingball - August 5 - 12:16 pm

  Great little suv. Fun to drive and has plenty of pick up when needed. No horror stories yet.

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  Escape for less money - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Escape Owner - July 28 - 10:10 am

  The car rides very nicely. It has as much power as the V6 non hybrid Escape. It is roomy and comfortable.

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  Good Buy, Good SUV - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By geobf - July 13 - 4:33 pm

  4,000 miles in less than three months, very happy with it. Wanted a replacement for my Explorer with better fuel economy/greener. Made the move just before gas prices went nuts, found that some Houston dealers had them on the lots. Bought one with leather seats; my wife liked the ride despite the leather. Very happy with performance, just short of 30 MPG despite mostly highway miles. The A/C not running under battery is a pain, but the gas engine only stays off for more than a couple miles if you are in very slow traffic. Challenging to get above 20 MPH on the electric motor, requires a subtle touch on the pedal. Safety package/side airbags a pleasant surprise.

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  09 escape hybrid--what an improvement - 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By jrs3 - June 7 - 9:46 pm

  I just traded in a 4WD 07 escape hybrid for a 4WD 09 hybrid--what a huge difference--the driving experience, quality and comfort much improved. The vehicle has become a class act rather than a noisy bare bones 4X4. Other improvements include a much better tuned switch from gas to electric and the mileage is better (31 average in mixed driving and it is not yet broken in).

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  Suprise! - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Charlie Ca$h - May 28 - 6:20 am

  I really enjoy my hybrid. I got it for my wife to go to work and to run my kid around Atlanta. We have saved a great deal of money on gas. Now we challenge each other on who can get the best gas mileage. The tax credit is also great! Plus we got the zero percent interest rate from Ford.

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  Well worth the money - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By EHF - May 17 - 4:26 pm

  I now have over 8500 miles on this car since June 07, including several 400+ mile trips. Gas mileage has been better than advertised, averaging over 34 miles per gallon composite city and highway driving (I do drive with economy in mind and have filled my tires with dry nitrogen which also helps economy). The ride remains very smooth, comfortable, and tight. Acceleration when required is good. Handling is quick and nimble (that doesnt make it a sports car though) and there is still no sign of tip-up while cornering. This vehicle continues to be everything I had hoped for and more, thank you Ford for making it available and please build more hybrids for us (e.g., a Ford Fusion Hybrid).

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  4X4 Escape - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Crashboxx - April 22 - 5:36 pm

  Very nice functional vehicle. I use it for work everyday; it is very dependable and you hardly notice the transfer from electric to gas while in motion. I get a lot of looks and questions which are also fun to field. May people want to see under the hood. When the truck shuts down in traffic and runs on electric only - took a little getting used too.

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  Handles Beautifully - 2007 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Bonnie & Bart - April 14 - 6:00 am

  I drive on the winding roads through the Santa Cruz Mountains and the car responds wonderfully to all the twists and turns. Also, when going "over the hill" which is sea level to 1800 ft summit in 10 minutes the car is not sluggish at all. It also holds its own on the freeways in the Silicon Valley. Best of all, in traffic stalls, my Escape Hybrid burns no gas at all! We just sit there quietly waiting our turn. We are averaging 29.6 mph. Me and my dog, Bart, love this car!

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  2008 Escape My Experience - 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By Tim Weisert - April 2 - 3:36 pm

  The ride is smoother than I expected. The continously variable transmission is great. Transitions from electric to gas and gas to electric are almost not perceived. If it fits in your budget the luxury package is great especially the display features.

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  Fun To Drive - 2006 Ford Escape Hybrid
  By bjronca - March 16 - 7:10 am

  Best car I ever owned. You must buy the navigation system option. We got the Premium Package. Im glad we did. It came with all leather interior and heated seats which are great. Ill never buy another vehicle without heated seats and navigation system. The ride and handling is better than I expected.